"Ella is the most exciting thing to have come out of this year's X Factor," a source told the paper. "Simon can't believe she got the boot, but he's not losing any sleep over it as he can see the pound signs in his eyes.

"He's confident Syco will get her, but if she goes elsewhere within Sony he's still quids in."

The other labels said to be interested in signing Henderson are Columbia, Epic and RCA, the latter of which is home to former X Factor hopeful Aiden Grimshaw.

The 16-year-old's father and manager Sean is said to be holding negotiations with the labels, although if a deal is confirmed, it is not expected to be announced until after this year's X Factor final.

Watch Ella Henderson singing 'Written in the Stars' by Tinie Tempah on The X Factor below:

Photo gallery - Shock 'X Factor' departures:

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Tulisa Contostavlos comforts Ella Henderson on stage as she loses out to James Arthur after Gary Barlow takes the vote to Deadlock on last night's live results show.
Copyright: Ken McKay/Thames/Rex Features
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